Veterans return to France

Three World War Two veterans are among a group who have made the trip to Normandy for the D-Day commemorations.

George Wing (98), Ernie Colville (93) and Sid Barnes (92) and their carers have had their trip to the north of France paid for thanks to fundraising by local philanthropist and hotel owner Harold Payne.

The group left Spalding on Thursday, May 31 for the eight day trip and they were sent on their way with a special blessing from the Rev Ross Dene.

The group, which numbers 27, took 50 bouquets with them that are being laid at numerous cemeteries and memorials as well as on the graves of fallen soldiers from the Spalding area.

They’ve also been to the beaches where the veterans landed on D-Day, 1944.

It’s the 29th year that Harold has taken a party of veterans to Normandy for the memorials. He said: “it’s been an amazing experience.”

more >

Wife to give evidence on businessman who defrauded government ahead of sentencing

17 Jul 2026

Teen (15) arrested after assault on 14-year-old

17 Jul 2026

District council to oppose booking system at tips

16 Jul 2026

New county authority to take on district roles as SHDC to be abolished

16 Jul 2026

Power cut affects hundreds of Spalding properties after ‘accidental equipment damage’

16 Jul 2026

MP’s delight as he claims Home Office has confirmed it will not house asylum seekers at former Sutton Bridge hotel

15 Jul 2026